PRIME Minister Tony Blair - who has been unwell for the second time in just a matter of weeks - and Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern are expected to hold talks in Cardiff tomorrow.

The two leaders will join other senior politicians for the latest summit meeting to discuss the outcome of the Northern Ireland Assembly elections.

The British-Irish Council, which was set up in the wake of the Good Friday Agreement, involves senior figures from the British and Irish governments, the devolved administrations of Wales and Scotland, as well as Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man. Tomorrow's meeting, hosted by First Minister Rhodri Morgan, will focus on minority languages.

The summit comes amid fresh speculation about Mr Blair's health.

On Wednesday he was forced to see a doctor after suffering from stomach ache just hours after the Queen's Speech set out his Government's legislative programme for the year ahead.

Downing Street insisted it was a minor complaint and Mr Blair was back to work straight away.

It comes just weeks after he underwent hospital treatment for a heart problem.

Irish Taoiseach Mr Ahern has confirmed he will meet Mr Blair at the British-Irish Council in Cardiff, adding: "The close relationship between the two governments is of fundamental importance ."

Counting begins today in Northern Ireland following yesterday's election to the assembly, which was suspended in October last year.

The first results were expected after midday.

Senior Labour figures are also expected elsewhere in South Wales tomorrow for a key meeting on party policy.

It comes amid the start of a backbench revolt over plans to introduce university top-up fees in England.